Overamped: Medical Consequences of Stimulant Use in People Living With or at Risk for HIV

This abstract aims to provide details on how to implement and replicate a strategy of community involvement in the development of programming to address stimulant use in hard-to-reach communities. Compelling evidence suggests the popularity of Crystal Methamphetamine (CM) among Black Men who have Sex with Men (MSM) in NY has increased throughout the last two decades and is a driving factor of increased HIV and STI transmission and other negative health outcomes. A combination of strategic approaches is essential to adequately address the influence of CM on the high HIV rates among Black MSM. These approaches must prioritize its unique and aggressive effects and must also encompass the nuances that Black MSM experience.
Prior to developing a response for Black MSM that are impacted by CM, the NY AIDS Institute (AI) gathered information and built relationships with community to learn about the current climate of stimulant use in this community. These steps included attending community-led forums, meeting with experts, providers, and leaders, compiling data, and surveying the current available resources. This background work underscored the need for an on-going internal AI workgroup to review, strategize, and develop goals and responses. Ultimately, in helping AI gain buy-in and insight, this background work guided AI’s coordination of a community forum of key stakeholders (Ballroom Leaders, grassroot organization leaders, local researchers, providers, advocacy groups, etc.). These community partnerships have proven to be instrumental as the AI continues to develop a strategic response to address CM use impacting Black MSM.